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We would like to welcome Dr. Virosh Dharmadasa to our pratice starting on October, 2023
Our office is now located at 9740 Barker Cypress Rd, Suite 108 B, Cypress, TX 77433

February 2024

Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:00

How Gout Progresses and Who Is at Risk

Gout, a type of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain attacks, can progress through four distinct stages, each posing unique challenges and implications for affected individuals. Initially, the asymptomatic hyperuricemia stage occurs, where elevated uric acid levels accumulate in the blood without any noticeable symptoms. This stage can persist for years before progressing to acute gouty arthritis, marked by sudden and intense joint pain, typically in the big toe. If left untreated, recurrent gout attacks may ensue, leading to the chronic gout stage characterized by frequent flare-ups and potential joint damage. In severe cases, tophaceous gout may develop, characterized by the formation of urate crystals in the joints and surrounding tissues, resulting in visible lumps. While anyone can develop gout, certain factors such as genetics, obesity, dietary habits rich in purines, alcohol consumption, and certain medications increase the risk. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine which stage you are in, and offer effective relief options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from CyFair Family Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout
Tuesday, 20 February 2024 00:00

Treatment Options for Drop Foot

Foot drop is a condition marked by having difficulty lifting or moving the foot and toes. The foot fails to lift properly, causing a gait that looks like marching. Foot drop typically stems from nerve injuries as the result of sports injuries, spinal issues like slipped discs, or neuropathies associated with conditions such as diabetes. Other causes of drop foot  include inherited conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease or neurological disorders, such as stroke or multiple sclerosis. Treatment strategies for foot drop are multifaceted, depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Certain exercises can play an important role in strengthening and stretching muscles to improve function. In addition, braces, splints, or custom orthotics may offer external support and aid in maintaining proper foot positioning. In cases of permanent impairment, surgical joint fusion or nerve repair may be necessary. Electrical nerve stimulation devices also can offer promising therapeutic options, particularly for individuals affected by stroke or multiple sclerosis. If you have symptoms of foot drop, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis, followed by the appropriate treatment options. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from CyFair Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Biomechanics in Podiatry
Tuesday, 13 February 2024 00:00

Trim Properly to Avoid Ingrown Toenails

Improper toenail trimming is a common culprit behind ingrown toenails, a painful condition that occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. The risk of ingrown toenails increases when toenails are trimmed improperly. This includes when toenails are cut too short, rounded at the corners, or not trimmed straight across. To trim toenails correctly and reduce the likelihood of ingrowth, you should follow a few simple steps. Firstly, soften the nails by soaking the feet in warm water for a few minutes. Using sanitized nail clippers, cut the nails straight across, avoiding curved edges. Ensure that the nails remain slightly longer than the skin at the nail's edge. Digging the clippers into the corners of the nails, or trying to create a rounded shape, will increase your chances of developing ingrown toenails. Adopting these toenail-trimming practices will help you maintain healthy, pain-free feet. If you suspect ingrowth, it is suggested you seek an appointment with a podiatrist, who can help you treat ingrown toenails and provide more prevention tips. 

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of CyFair Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenail Care

Pregnancy, a momentous journey marked by various changes, also brings about alterations in the body, including swelling in the feet. This phenomenon, known as edema, is a common occurrence during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure on the pelvic veins. The growing uterus exerts pressure on the vena cava, which hinders blood flow from the lower extremities and leads to fluid retention. Hormonal changes further contribute to this swelling by causing the body to retain more water. To find relief, elevation of the feet whenever possible helps reduce fluid buildup. Supportive footwear and avoiding prolonged periods of standing can alleviate the strain on the feet. Staying hydrated, incorporating gentle exercises like walking, and incorporating a low-sodium diet can also aid in managing pregnancy-related foot swelling. If you have foot swelling or pain in any area of your foot during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you to find additional relief measures.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from CyFair Family Foot Care. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Care for Pregnant Women
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